Artist Spotlight | Abby Ruby

Abby Wolfzorn Ruby shares her process of creation, and it reminds me so much of what Julia Cameron says about feeding our inner child. Abby’s work is both playful and intuitive- she uses simple motifs and a limited color palette to create introspective work from her soul. Her process is about the explorative–something that really speaks to me about her work. There is a purpose to it that each piece carries. I truly believe that when an artist creates in a place of honesty with themselves, the art has a greater impact on the world. I hope you find Abby’s story an inspiration to feed your inner child and artist.

Stories, ArtCynthia SipesJanuary 28, 2021art, artist, abby ruby, creativity

Not Your Mother's Tattoo Shop

I like tattoos. I like tattoos a lot. So when the chance came up for me to interview the owners of Other Mother Tattoo, I jumped at the opportunity. I already knew that Briana Walker and Whitney Harbin were amazing at what they did, but after our conversation, I decided to start referring to them (and all the other tattoo artists that I know) as artists—not just tattoo artists. After reading our discussion, you might choose to do the same.

Visual Dialogue

Professor Haelim Allen’s office, like the rest of the art department at Union University, is in beautiful disarray. There are paintings on the walls, half-completed sketches on her desk, various models in differing states of completion on a bookshelf, and of course a second bookshelf overflowing with literature that seems a staple of every teacher’s office. Just outside of her office door is a gorgeous light box which fills the hallway with a sense of peace and calm. The building itself is not by any stretch beautiful, but Professor Allen has transformed her office and the hallway leading up to it into a peaceful, welcoming environment.

What is theLOCAL?: Hub City Love

The door opens with a wide swing as I'm greeted with the usual "Hi, friend, come in!" Tiny footsteps come faster and faster around the corner until I'm hit by my favorite little person hugs. Coffee is probably already in the works for me, and a spot on the couch cleared. "So, how are you?" she asks.This is the usual welcome I receive at the Havner household. There are some people in life who were made to share in our stories—people who don't simply listen to your words but involve themselves, too.

What is theLOCAL?: Garner Blue Shop

Something unique is happening in Jackson: a space dedicated to handmade pieces by a collective of artists, many of whom are local to the area, where people can feel a connection to the items they purchase. While micro-retailing has seen a boon in large metropolitan areas across the country, Jackson now has its own venture in theLOCAL, a collection of small shops curated by local entrepreneurs in downtown Jackson.